Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat RWD vs BMW 4 Series 440i Gran Coupe RWD

The Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat RWD embodies the zenith of Chrysler's (now Stellantis's) LX platform, a tribute to the pinnacle of muscle car engineering. Debuting in the 2015 model year after a significant facelift, the Challenger SRT Hellcat replaced the SRT-8 trim, stunning the automotive world with a jaw-dropping 707hp from a supercharged V-8 engine. This model has since served as a foundation for further variants like the SRT Hellcat Redeye and has been enhanced with options such as the Widebody Package, showcasing its enduring appeal and performance prowess.

Conversely, the BMW 4 Series 440i Gran Coupe RWD offers a blend of power, style, and practicality. Positioned as a mid-range trim, it eclipses the entry-level 430i with its more powerful engine and unique four-door hatchback design, all without a substantial increase in price. Introduced alongside the rest of the Gran Coupe lineup in 2015, it has stood as a formidable alternative to the traditional luxury sedan, competing against heavyweights like the Audi A4 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. However, it was discontinued after the 2020 model year, making way for the next generation of the 4 Series.

The heart of the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat RWD lies in its 717hp supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine. This powerhouse is matched with a choice between a six-speed manual or a ZF 8HP90 eight-speed automatic transmission, propelling it to 60mph in an estimated 3.6 seconds with rear-wheel drive. The combination of raw power and drivetrain options offers a thrilling driving experience that is both visceral and exhilarating.

The BMW 4 Series 440i Gran Coupe, on the other hand, is propelled by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six-cylinder engine. Mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, this setup achieves a 0-60mph time of 4.9 seconds. While not as blisteringly fast as the Challenger, the 440i offers a refined balance of power and agility, suited for both spirited drives and daily commuting.